Diego Simeone has spoken of his delight in signing a new four-year contract to stay on as Coach of Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine’s original deal was set to expire this summer, but after weeks of negotiations, a deal until June 2017 was agreed, and confirmed this week.

“I remember that with the President, back in 2003, when I left as a player, I always wanted to come back and I prepared myself for that,” enthused Simeone at a news conference today.

El Cholo has taken Atleti to Europa League and UEFA Super Cup titles and has the team currently second in La Liga and qualified for this season’s Copa del Rey Final.

“I thank the directors for having wanted to renew my contract. We can continue with this philosophy and this project that has brought us together.

“It is why I also want to thank the people who have been with us since the start.

“This renewal is a success for the club, in terms of continuing to construct a balance.

“From this supported stability, institutions can grow and sustain the talent of their players. Everyone wants a better Atletico Madrid.

“I’m happy, but this is it and what is important now is Sunday’s game. We should continue to progress step by step and not be confused with success. We need stability for growth. This fills me with pride.

“My objectives? To aspire to win the Champions League you have to qualify for it. First things first. Thereafter, we can respond in the summer.

“Hopefully we can also beat Madrid in the Cup Final. We’ll work for it.”

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